Tories still hope for North East devolution

Conservative group leader Coun Judith Wallace with Andrew Percy MP, Minister for the Local Growth and the Northern Powerhouse.

Published:08:20Sunday 26 March 2017

Talks have taken place over the prospect of devolution powers in the north.

North Tyneside Conservative group leader Coun Judith Wallace met with Andrew Percy MP, Minister for the Local Growth and the Northern Powerhouse, to discuss the future of devolution in the North.

A devolution deal for the North East fell through last year when four councils pulled out.

Coun Wallace said: “The deal was worth an extra £30m a year for economic growth, to provide more jobs.

“The Conservatives have introduced a policy of devolving powers from the national government in Westminster to local authorities in England, where local authorities can group together and seek specific powers to improve economic performance.

“Each devolution deal is bespoke, as different areas have different requirements and views. Several deals have already been finalised.

“This is important for our area. The government is still keen to transfer powers to the local level.”